I'm Aileen, an Independent Celebrant
I create personal, authentic ceremonies that celebrate real lives and real love.
Before becoming a celebrant I worked in executive HR across retail and social care charities supporting older people and those with learning disabilities and autism. That experience taught me how to listen with care, manage sensitive conversations, and lead with empathy.
I bring calm leadership, deep listening, and practical organisation to every wedding, vow renewal, naming ceremony, and funeral I craft. I use those skills to help families and couples shape ceremonies that feel authentic and respectful of every relationship and life story.
I am trained and certified by The Academy of Professional Celebrants.
How I work
Listen first. I begin with a relaxed conversation to hear your story, what’s important to you, and the tone you want.
Co‑create the structure. Together we choose the flow, readings, music cues, and any symbolic acts.
Write with care. I draft a script that uses your language, memories, and humour — then we refine it until it feels right.
Support on the day. I guide the ceremony with calm confidence, coordinate with venues and suppliers where needed, and ensure the moment unfolds as planned.
Flexible and respectful. I adapt to religious, cultural, or secular needs and work sensitively with grieving families or joyful couples alike.
What I bring to your ceremony
I put people first. I listen deeply, ask the right questions, and co‑create a ceremony that reflects your values, humour, and memories. Whether you want a joyful wedding, a tender goodbye, a meaningful vow renewal, or a welcoming naming ceremony, I’ll write words that feel like you and guide the day with quiet confidence so you can be present with the people who are important to you.
Services I Provide
Weddings & Vow Renewals
Naming & Welcome Ceremonies
Funerals
Memorials
Pet Ceremonies
Bespoke Ceremonies
About Aileen
I’m Aileen, a celebrant based near Wokingham. I’m married to Ian and we share our life with Harry, our cheeky Wheaten Terrier.
Family is very important to me and getting everyone together (usually over one of my roast dinners) is always a happy time. I love being outdoors in all weathers, you’ll usually find me pottering in the garden or stomping the local footpaths with Harry by my side (and Ian when he can!) or off exploring new places across the UK and beyond. Those simple, honest moments inform how I design ceremonies: grounded, heartfelt, and focused on what truly matters to you.
Community and Volunteering
I volunteer with a local Search and Rescue organisation, we specialise in searching for high risk, missing vulnerable adults and children on behalf of Thames Valley Police. That role demands calm under pressure, teamwork, and practical problem solving — qualities I bring to planning and delivering ceremonies, especially when emotions run high or logistics are complex
